Side Effects of Under Eating

Eating is essential for our bodies to function properly, providing us with energy and nutrients needed for everyday activities. However, some people may under eat, which can have negative impacts on their health. Under eating can be caused by several factors, including body image issues, eating disorders, and lack of access to food. In this blog post, we will explore the side effects of under eating and provide practical tips to help you avoid under eating.

What happens when you under eat?

Undereating is defined as not consuming enough calories to meet your body’s daily energy needs. When your body does not get enough fuel, it begins to break down muscle tissue and fat reserves to compensate for the deficit. This can lead to a range of negative side effects.

Negative Side effects of under eating on your body:

1. Weight loss: Undereating can cause rapid weight loss, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies and other health problems.
2. Malnutrition: Undereating can cause malnutrition, which can lead to a range of deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium, and vitamin D.
3. Fatigue: Undereating can cause a feeling of lethargy and sluggishness. Your body does not have enough energy to function properly.
4. Weakness: Undereating can cause a loss of muscle mass, which can lead to weakness and a reduced ability to perform physical activities.
5. Fertility problems: Undereating can cause hormonal imbalances, which can lead to fertility problems in women.

Risks of chronic under eating:

Chronic under eating can lead to numerous health problems, including:

1. Eating disorders: Chronic under eating can lead to eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
2. Osteoporosis: Chronic under eating can lead to a loss of bone density, which can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
3. Heart problems: Chronic under eating can lead to a weakened heart muscle, which can increase the risk of heart problems such as heart failure.
4. Depression: Chronic under eating can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety.

Tips to avoid under eating:

1. Eat regularly: Make sure to eat three meals a day and snack if needed to avoid feeling hungry.
2. Eat a balanced diet: A balanced diet should include protein, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
3. Keep a food diary: Keeping track of what you eat can help you ensure you are consuming enough calories and nutrients.
4. Talk to a professional: If you are struggling with under eating or an eating disorder, it is essential to seek help from a medical professional.
5. Increase calorie intake: If you are undereating, it is important to increase your calorie intake gradually to avoid shocking your body.

Also Read:

Side Effects of Over Eating

Conclusion:

Under eating can have serious side effects on your health, including weight loss, malnutrition, fatigue, weakness, fertility problems, eating disorders, osteoporosis, heart problems, and depression. To avoid under eating, it is important to eat regularly, follow a balanced diet, keep a food diary, seek professional help if necessary, and gradually increase your calorie intake. By taking care of your body and providing it with the necessary fuel, you can maintain good health and wellbeing.

Credible sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Underweight? See how to add pounds healthfully. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/underweight/art-20044726
2. National Eating Disorders Association. (2021). Signs and symptoms. https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/signs-symptoms
3. National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Eating disorders. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/eating-disorders/index.shtml